The India women’s national field hockey team will begin its four-match tour against Australia women’s national field hockey team in Perth on Tuesday, with the series serving as a key part of its preparations for the upcoming FIH Hockey Women’s Nations Cup in Auckland next month.
Led by captain Salima Tete, the Indian side is looking to carry forward the confidence gained from its recent performances in Argentina earlier this year. India had impressed by drawing a four-match series 2-2 against the world No. 2 side after recovering from defeats in the opening two games.
The Perth series is expected to provide another stern test for the ninth-ranked Indian team as it prepares for the Nations Cup, scheduled to take place from June 15 to 21 in Auckland.
The squad has spent the past few weeks at the national training camp in SAI Bengaluru, where players underwent intensive tactical and fitness sessions under chief coach Sjoerd Marijne. The camp focused on improving structural play, penalty corner strategies, match awareness and overall fitness levels ahead of the demanding international schedule.
Captain Salima expressed confidence in the team’s preparation and highlighted the importance of facing a strong opponent like Australia on home soil.
“The entire squad is really looking forward to this tour. Playing against Australia, especially on their home turf, is always a tough challenge, and that is exactly what we need at this stage of our preparations. Every match in Perth will be crucial for us,” she said.
“We want to head into the Nations Cup in Auckland with momentum and confidence. Australia will push us to our limits, and we want to use that to become a stronger unit.”
The 22-member Indian squad blends experienced campaigners with promising young talent. Rising players such as Sonam, Hina Bano and Lalthantluangi are expected to gain valuable exposure during the tour and strengthen India’s depth ahead of future international competitions.
Currently ranked just one place below Australia in the FIH World Rankings, India will aim to challenge the eighth-ranked hosts with an aggressive and disciplined approach. The series is also seen as an opportunity for the team to fine-tune combinations and build consistency before heading into one of its most important tournaments of the year.
With confidence growing within the camp and preparations entering the final phase, India will hope a strong showing in Perth can provide the ideal platform for a successful Nations Cup campaign.
The Schedule (all times in IST)
India vs Australia, Match 1: May 26 (17:00 hrs)
India vs Australia, Match 2: May 27 (17:00 hrs)
India vs Australia, Match 3: May 29 (11:00 hrs)
India vs Australia, Match 4: May 30 (11:00 hrs)
The Squad
Goalkeepers: Savita, Bichu Devi Kharibam.
Defenders: Nikki Pradhan, Ishika Chaudhary, Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam, Lalthantluangi, Jyoti, Shilpi Dabas.
Midfielders: Salima Tete, Lalremsiami, Neha, Sakshi Rana, Sunelita Toppo, Deepika Soreng, Sonam.
Forwards: Navneet Kaur, Baljeet Kaur, Deepika, Annu, Ishika, Hina Bano, Rutuja Dadaso Pisal.
